From the Guidelines
The medical term for an increase in neutrophils in the blood is neutrophilia. This condition occurs when the neutrophil count exceeds 7,500 cells per microliter of blood in adults. Neutrophilia commonly develops in response to bacterial infections, inflammation, certain medications, stress, or underlying conditions like leukemia. The body produces more neutrophils as part of its immune defense mechanism to fight pathogens, particularly bacteria. Although the study by 1 discusses the risks associated with a depressed absolute neutrophil count, such as increased risk for bacterial infections, it does not directly address the term for an increase in neutrophils. However, based on general medical knowledge, treatment for neutrophilia focuses on addressing the underlying cause rather than the elevated neutrophil count itself. For bacterial infections, appropriate antibiotics are prescribed based on the specific pathogen. For inflammatory conditions, anti-inflammatory medications may be used. In cases of medication-induced neutrophilia, discontinuing the triggering drug often resolves the condition. Regular blood tests may be necessary to monitor neutrophil levels until they return to normal range. If neutrophilia persists without clear cause, further evaluation by a hematologist may be warranted to rule out more serious conditions like myeloproliferative disorders. Key points to consider in the management of neutrophilia include:
- Identifying and treating the underlying cause
- Monitoring neutrophil counts with regular blood tests
- Discontinuing any potentially triggering medications
- Considering further evaluation if the cause remains unclear or if the condition persists.
From the Research
Definition of Neutrophilia
- Neutrophilia refers to an increase in the number of circulating neutrophils in the peripheral blood 2.
- This condition can be caused by various factors, including infection, inflammatory conditions, myeloproliferative disorders, malignancies, endocrinopathies, drugs, and anemia 2.
Associated Conditions
- Neutrophilia can also be associated with rare disorders such as leukocyte adhesion deficiency 2.
- Certain conditions like stress, exercise, smoking, obesity, and obstructive sleep apnea have been linked to chronic idiopathic neutrophilia (CIN) 2.
- Neutrophils play a crucial role in protecting against infections, cardiovascular disease, and cancer, but can also contribute to the aggravation of these conditions 3.
Neutrophil Count and Infection
- An increase in neutrophil count can indicate an increase in neutrophil consumption, which is often seen in bacterial infections 4.
- The dynamic changes in white blood cell count and left shift data can reflect the severity of a bacterial infection 4.
Role of Neutrophils in Disease
- Neutrophils are complex cells that can regulate various processes, including acute injury and repair, cancer, autoimmunity, and chronic inflammatory processes 5.
- Neutrophils can also contribute to adaptive immunity by aiding the development of specific adaptive immune responses 5.
- In autoimmune diseases, neutrophils may play an important role in both the immunization and effector phases of the disease 6.